The Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards in the world, with a prize of $50,000 bestowed annually to authors of fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. It was created to celebrate the 81 years of discerning, thoughtful criticism Kirkus Reviews has contributed to both the publishing industry and readers at large. Books that earned the Kirkus Star with publication dates between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015, are automatically nominated for the 2015 Kirkus Prize, and the winners will be selected on October 23, 2015, by an esteemed panel composed of nationally respected writers and highly regarded booksellers, librarians and Kirkus critics.

KIRKUS REVIEW

A Hollywood insider turns investigator to keep her boyfriend’s sister out of jail.

Nikki Harper may be a Hollywood realtor rather than a movie star, but as the daughter of legendary Victoria Bordeaux, she’s in the crowd at any Tinseltown gathering. Plus, she’s got an irresistible smile that gets her whatever her famous name won’t. Nikki’s not one to abuse her power, but she’s not above using that smile when her boyfriend Jeremy’s sister Alison tops the suspect list of Lt. Detective Thomas Dombrowski. The officer, whom Nikki knows as Detective Cutie-Pants, is looking into the matter of Ryan Melton, a Hollywood househusband killed in the privacy of his own sprawling mansion. Ryan’s actress wife, Diara, is cleared of suspicion because she was busy on her latest movie set when the deed went down. Not so for the unfortunate Alison, who, as Ryan and Diara’s dog walker, had unrestricted access to the house. Against Jeremy’s wishes, Nikki tries to help Alison, even though she can’t help wondering if it’s worth the barrier it creates between her and Jeremy, especially when it becomes clear that Alison has more to hide than most dog walkers.

Hollywood insider Crane, daughter of actress Lana Turner, has lived Nikki’s world in real life and fiction (The Bad Always Die Twice, 2011, etc.). She infuses her tale with humor and nuances that overshadow a middling plot.

Be the first to discover new talent!
Each week, our editors select the one author and one book they believe to be most worthy of your attention and highlight them in our Pro Connect email alert.
Sign up here to receive your FREE alerts.